VOTE No.1 OISÍN COGHLAN for ​SEANAD ÉIREANN - TRINITY PANEL

I am running in the Seanad elections to push climate action and social justice up the political agenda. Your No. 1 vote can help me do that. If elected I will be an energetic, independent voice for a healthy environment, a strong democracy and a more equal society.

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WHY I'M RUNNING

I’m running to push climate action and social justice up the political agenda.Climate change is the biggest challenge humanity faces. But our political leaders downplay the need for action. And they are failing to grasp the opportunities for Ireland in the transition to a fossil free future. I'm running to give the Trinity constituency the opportunity to elect a Senator who will put climate change at the top of their agenda. And I want Trinity to lead the way. The college should divest its €6 million holdings in fossil fuel companies.The Seanad is not supposed to be a creature of political parties. It is supposed to represent the different strands of Irish society.I have 20 years’ experience working for civil society organizations:10 years in overseas aid and human rights and the last 10 years as Director of Friends of the Earth. I think at least one of the 60 Senators should represent Ireland’s rich tradition of global solidarity and the new imperative of climate action. Trinity has a proud tradition of electing independent Senators who pioneer progress in areas too long neglected by the Dáil.I’m asking for your No.1 to be an independent voice in the Seanad for a healthy environment, a stronger democracy and a more equal society.

MY PRIORITIES

A healthy environment and a resilient economy

Climate Action – Ireland can rise to the challenges and opportunities of the move to a zero carbon future. Our political leaders have delayed and dodged for too long.

Trinity should lead by divesting its €6 million investments in fossil fuels.

Create sustainable jobs – The shift to sustainable production and production will create 500,000 future proof jobs across the EU, including many in IT and smart technology. The Government’s Action Plans for Jobs have so far failed to grasp this potential.

Protect and restore Ireland’s unique natural heritage.

A stronger democracy

Strengthen the Oireachtas – Ireland has one of the weakest parliaments in the democratic world. The result of the general election has given us a once in a generation opportunity to give TDs and Senators a real role in legislation and policy making.

Promote civil society participation – restore the disproportionate funding cuts to the community and voluntary sector.

A more equal society

Housing and homelessness – ensure the next Government uses every lever at its disposal to address this crisis.